About John Harrer

Pronounced hair-er (hâr-er)

I’m a photographer, writer, and drone pilot based in Bakersfield, California. After 30 years of running a local health food store, I picked up a camera and haven’t put it down. These days, I use stills, video, and drone work to tell stories—from the saddle, from the road, and from the sky.

My background in horsemanship taught me to slow down, look closer, and trust instinct. That carries over into everything I shoot—whether it’s a documentary-style project or a quiet moment captured in golden light.

You’ll find photography here, short films, and a blog where I explore the journey of creativity and connection. Thanks for stopping by.

Creative Background

Some people grow up with horses. I found mine at 51.

There’s a steep learning curve when you start that late—but I embraced it. As I learned, I realized others were on the same journey, searching for better information. That inspired me to start The Whoa Podcast About Horses and Horsemanship—a long-running show that’s reached listeners in over 80 countries. Over 200 episodes later, I’ve interviewed some of the biggest names in the horse world and still believe in the power of shared experience.

Along the way, I taught myself photography, video production, and audio editing. I’ve produced commercial billboard photography, helped build campaigns for health care clients, contributed stories and photos to national publications, and supported fellow creators with post-production work.

In 2025, my photograph Reflection on Lake Ming was selected for inclusion in the Monterey Museum of Art's first-ever Biennial—an honor I’m proud to share as part of my creative journey.

When I’m not behind a camera or in front of a mic, I’m out on horseback—or chasing light with a drone.

Skills

  • Adobe: Audition, Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator

  • Photography: Studio, documentary, drone

  • Podcast production and storytelling

  • Writing for web, print, and broadcast

  • Video editing

Selected Experience

  • The Whoa Podcast (2012–2023)

  • Freelance Media Work (2013–Present)

  • Billboard photography – Dignity Health

  • Podcast editor – Freelance Remuda

  • Feature package – Australian Stock Horse Society

Selected Experience

2025 – Monterey Museum of Art Biennial
Selected for exhibition: ‘Reflection on Lake Ming’

Bakersfield College
Digital Media Arts & Photography (2018–Present)

Contact me

Got a project in mind? Want to collaborate, license an image, or just talk shop? Drop me a note using the form, or email me directly at john.harrer@gmail.com. I’ll get back to you soon.